Internship / On the Job Training

Internships provide real world experience to those looking to explore or gain the relevant
knowledge and skills required to enter into a particular career field. Internships are
relatively short term in nature with the primary focus on getting some on the job training
and taking what’s learned in the classroom and applying it to the real world. For
internships for credit, usually a faculty sponsor will work along with the site supervisor
to ensure that the necessary learning is taking place.

Internships are available in a wide variety of fields from both the private and not-for-profit
sectors of the job market. Internships may be paid or unpaid, for credit or not-for-credit,
and may be pursued spring, summer, or fall. Internships are considered any opportunity where
you are able to train and get relevant work experience in a particular job or career field.
Volunteer work can also be considered a form of internship, since you are getting exposure
to working in a nonprofit work environment which is usually quite different from working
in an organization for profit.

There are many different ways to find a great internship experience. Many companies have
well-established strong internship programs. Others may have assorted positions available
as the need arises. However, it may be that you can’t find the position you’re looking for.
In this case you can research and develop your own position. It takes time and effort but
an internship that is specifically tailored to your own academic and career goals can be
better than one that is "close enough."

Work-Based Learning (WBL) gives students the opportunity to learn a variety of skills by
expanding the walls of classroom learning to include the community. By narrowing the gap
between theory and practice, Work-Based Learning creates meaning for students. WBL provides
opportunities for students to learn a variety of skills through rigorous academic preparation
with hands-on career development experiences. Under the guidance of adult mentors, students
learn to work in teams, solve problems, and meet employers’ expectation.

Internship / On the Job Training

Interns can be high school or college students or even adults interested in trying out a new
career. Many college students do internships to gain relevant experience in a particular
career field as well as to get exposure to determine if they have a genuine interest in the
field. Internships are an excellent way to begin building those important connections that
are invaluable in developing and maintaining a strong professional network for the future.